Six Common Health Problems That Are Easily Preventable

Medical advancement has come a long way in the past century, but the more we learn about medicine, the more we realize that the best approach toward eradicating a disease is preventing a disease. Ironically, some of the most common medical conditions are often the most preventable. Below is a list of some of the common health problems that you may be able to prevent. Coronary Artery DiseasernCoronary artery disease, or CAD, is perhaps the most common, life-threatening example of a preventable disease. CAD is caused by plaque (usually related to cholesterol) that builds up in the arteries. It impedes the blood flow throughout the body and can become so severe that it "chokes" the heart of any ability to pump blood. It can be cause by diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol and blood pressure, and more. While some people may be predisposed to having some of these things, it can be fairly easily managed with the help of a medical professional. Gingivitis rnGingivitis has very few symptoms and it will often go unnoticed, but millions of Americans suffer from this preventable condition. Though most cases of gingivitis are mild, it is important to understand that this condition leads to other more serious conditions such as periodontal (gum) disease. Gingivitis is even a risk factor for heart disease, which is why good oral hygiene is so important. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice per day, and flossing once per day, to prevent plaque buildup and gingivitis. It’s also important to go to your regular dental checkups at places like Guerra Dental. StrokernA stroke occurs when the brain suffers a lack of blood supply. Blood cannot reach the brain, typically because of a blockage somewhere in the arteries. A debilitating, often fatal condition, strokes are considered one of the most preventable medical emergencies due to their underlying causes. Strokes are the result of a sedentary lifestyles, a poor diet, smoking, heavy drinking, illicit drug use, high blood pressure and diabetes. You can prevent yourself from having a stroke by regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular checkups with your doctor to monitor things like blood pressure and cholesterol. Lung CancerrnAccording to the Mayo Clinic, lung cancer claims more lives every year than any other types of cancer; in fact, it claims more lives than any of the other top-four cancers combined. Sadly, it is also one of the most preventable types of cancers because it is almost exclusively caused by smoking. Not only do those who smoke risk their own health, but they risk the health of everyone around them. Secondhand smoke can cause cancer as fast as primary smoke. By choosing to not smoke, and avoiding secondhand smoke, this disease could be prevented. Diabetes Type IIrnDiabetes Type II is a disease involving the malfunction of the insulin hormone. This disease is a serious condition because it is a risk factor for many other types of serious diseases including several of the conditions mentioned above (heart attack, stroke, etc.). You can prevent diabetes by eating healthy and exercising. As with most health conditions, some will be predisposed to diabetes, but with the help of a healthcare professional, you can stay healthy and prevent it from getting worse. In summary, most of these common preventable diseases have a common theme: live an active lifestyle, have a healthy diet, get plenty of exercise, avoid smoking and illicit drugs, and always maintain good oral hygiene. By practicing these simple tips you will prevent not only these, but a host of other medical conditions. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any healthy concerns you may have.